Pixiebob: The Bobcat-Look Cat With a Dog-Like Devotion

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

With its tufted ears, spotted coat and short tail, the Pixiebob looks like a bobcat that has settled into the family sofa. The breed's wild appearance is part of its charm, but its heart is entirely domestic. Pixiebobs are known for loyal, dog-like devotion, and many follow their owners around the house, greet visitors at the door and enjoy a walk on a leash.

Origins

The breed was developed in the 1980s by Carol Ann Brewer of Washington State, who acquired a male polydactyl cat with a short tail and named him Keba. She later got a spotted female named Pixie, and the breed took her name. The story that Pixiebobs descend from wild bobcats became popular, but genetic testing has not found evidence of it. Instead, they are descended from domestic cats with a natural short tail and sometimes extra toes. The breed is now recognized by major registries.

Appearance

Pixiebobs are large, with a muscular, rugged build. Males typically weigh 10 to 17 pounds and females 8 to 12 pounds. They reach maturity slowly, often by three to four years. They have:

• A short tail, between two inches and hock length, which may be kinked or knotted
• A spotted, tabby-patterned coat, in shorthair or longhair
• A large, wedge-shaped head with heavy brow ridges
• Deep-set eyes in gold, brown or green
• Ears with lynx-like tufts in some cats
• Polydactyl feet in many, with extra toes up to seven on each paw

Temperament

Pixiebobs are often described as dog-like.

• Loyal. They bond strongly with their people and follow them from room to room.
• Social. They usually get along with children, cats and cat-friendly dogs.
• Trainable. Many learn to fetch, walk on a leash and come when called.
• Calm and confident. They are not as hyperactive as some breeds, but need play.
• Quiet. They chirp and chatter rather than meow loudly.

Their steady temperament makes them popular with families. See best cat breeds for families.

Grooming

The coat is easy to care for.

• Brush weekly with a comb or soft brush, more often for the longhair. See how to brush a cat.
• Check the toes, since extra toes may need nail trimming. See how to trim cat nails.
• Clean ears and brush teeth. See how to clean a cat's ears and cat dental disease.
• Bathe only if needed. See how to bathe a cat.

Health

Pixiebobs are generally hardy, but ask breeders about:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, with screening of breeding cats
• Dystocia, or difficulty giving birth, which has been reported
• Reproductive tract issues in some females
• Dental disease
• Obesity. See how much should I feed my cat.

Keep vaccines up to date. See the cat vaccination schedule, and use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Living with a Pixiebob

Pixiebobs adapt well.

• Provide sturdy cat trees, since they are heavy. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Offer play, fetch and puzzle feeders. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Try leash training, since many enjoy walks.
• Travel with them in a secure carrier. See how to travel with a cat by car.

Keep them indoors or supervised. They can be curious about the outdoors, and a large, wild-looking cat may be mistaken for a wild animal.

Is a Pixiebob right for you?

A Pixiebob suits families, people who like a loyal, interactive cat and those who enjoy leash training. It may not suit people with small apartments and no climbing space, or who want an aloof cat.

Compared with similar breeds

Pixiebobs are often compared with the American Bobtail and the Maine Coon. The Pixiebob tends to be calmer than the American Bobtail and has a more rugged, spotted look. The Maine Coon has a long tail and a flowing coat.

Questions to ask a breeder

Ask about health screening, parents' temperaments, kitten socialization and what registry the cat belongs to. Be wary of anyone who claims wild ancestry or sells hybrids as Pixiebobs. A responsible breeder offers a contract and health guarantee.

A day with a Pixiebob

A typical day includes a greeting at the door, a stroll through the house at your heels and a long nap in a sunny spot. Pixiebobs often enjoy a game of fetch in the evening, and they like to sit near whatever you are doing. Provide interactive toys, a place to climb and time together, and a Pixiebob will usually repay you with steady, affectionate companionship.

Common mistakes

Do not leave them alone for long periods, and do not ignore their need for play. Avoid overfeeding, since their large frame may hide weight gain.